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Together We Give. Together We Rise: Chicago Emerging Stars’ 2nd Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway Served 350+ Families in Under 40 Minutes
On Saturday, November 22, 2025, something powerful happened on Chicago’s South Side and it wasn’t just a giveaway. It was a reminder of what Chicago looks like when the community shows up for community. Chicago Emerging Stars, a fast-growing, youth-led nonprofit founded by Chicago native Jaqueza Thomas, hosted its 2nd Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway themed “Together We Give. Together We Rise.” Families began arriving early, bracing against the cold with the same hope they
5 min read
Igniting Possibility: Chicago Emerging Stars Joins City of Chicago’s Youth Biz Expo to Inspire the Next Generation of Leaders
Chicago Emerging Stars joined the City of Chicago’s Youth Biz Expo at Malcolm X College to inspire and empower over 200 CPS students exploring business, leadership, and innovation. The event reflected our mission to guide youth toward purpose, possibility, and power proving that when young people lead, communities thrive.
2 min read
Real Talk, Real Change, Real Community: A Night That Moved Us Forward
Last Thursday, something powerful happened inside Leo High School. Over 100 young people and community members came together for Real Talk: A Youth Conversation on Community + Safety, an evening filled with honesty, understanding, and hope. Hosted in partnership between the 006th District Community Policing Office and Chicago Emerging Stars, this event was more than a discussion, it was a movement in motion. The goal was simple: to create a safe, welcoming space with youth, f
1 min read
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